Culture of Papeete. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

A major part of historical and cultural landmarks and sights of the tourist destination was destroyed in the end of the 19th century by an extensive fire. A ruinous cyclone battered on Papeete in 1906 badly damaged the city as well. However the city of Papeete has preserved numerous cultural objects which will be of great interest for all the tourists to explore. The best point to start an exploration of the landmarks and sights of the Papeete city is the Toata Place as it is an established location of holding of all significant events in the life of the city.

The Avenue Bruat starts right near the Place. The street hosts astonishing office buildings and significant governmental institutions. The most beautiful architectural landmark of this district is considered to be the Presidential Palace and the High Commissioner Office. Another interesting spot of tourist interest to visit and explore is the General Post Office which is surrounded with the scale Bougainville Park.

The Vaima Center is considered to be the main shopping area of the city. However apart from numerous stores and boutiques tourists will find several landmarks there as well. Among them travelers will discover the Cathedral of Notre Dame of Papeete. Its construction was held in the second part of the 19th century. The religious building was as well severely damaged with ruinous natural disasters the city has survived in. The last scale reconstruction of the Cathedral was finished twenty years ago. The Missi-District of Papeete features as well several religious landmarks. Tourists will find a marvelous catholic church and the Bishop Palace there. The palace was established in the beginning of the 17th century and is now one of the oldest buildings in the city. The impressive building has survived till nowadays by miracle. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The Paofai Temple is located not far from the city center. Tourists whose exploration tour will run though this symbolic historical landmark should necessarily look into the church to fully embrace its magnificent interior decoration. The city of Papeete features plenty of cultural establishments among which tourists give ultimate preference to the Museum of Tahiti. The museum keeps a rich collection of historical showpieces and tells its visitors about the most significant events in the life of the island. Another significant spot of tourist attraction is the Black Pearl Museum which collection is dedicated to the history of appearance and development of one of the local businesses. A major part of the showpieces of the museum consists of jewelry of ultimate beauty worth of eternal admiration.